How the Master of International Business prepared this student for a career at Nestlé

Sandra Cardenal (BSBA ‘20, MIB ’21) will soon add a Master of International Business (MIB) degree to her resume. After she graduates this summer, she will work at Nestlé. Read on to see how her business education at the UF Warrington College of Business prepared her for her career, her advice to others interested in the MIB program and more. 

Tell us about your background.
Cardenal: “I graduated with an undergraduate marketing degree from the University of Florida. I was born and raised in Miami, Florida and am of Nicaraguan background. Some of my favorite hobbies include reading, listening to old vinyl records and visiting art museums.”

Why did you join the MIB program?

Cardenal: “I joined the MIB program because as a first-generation American, globalization is something I have always wanted to learn more about as I had experienced it first-hand throughout my life. The MIB program gave me the opportunity to combine my passion for business with my culture and background. This is something I was always interested in carrying into my career and is ultimately why I applied to the program.”

What do you enjoy the most in the MIB program?

Cardenal: “I enjoy the unique electives the MIB program. Some of my favorite courses I have taken include International Marketing and Product Development. These courses allowed me to collaborate and take learning outside of the classroom while covering topics I am truly passionate about.”

 What advice do you have for undergraduate students who are thinking of doing MIB program? 

Cardenal: “My advice to current undergraduate students is to take the opportunity and apply to the MIB program because it will set you up for success in whatever industry you go into. Globalization is taking over every field and specializing in it will give you a competitive advantage in the business world.”

What internships and other activities did you participate in as an undergraduate student?

Cardenal: “As an undergraduate student I was involved in several on-campus student organizations such as the University of Florida’s American Marketing Association as well as the Florida Cicerones. I also had the opportunity to work for the Kellogg Company as a sales intern on their Costco account. All these experiences allowed me to be in the position I am today.”

What are you doing after graduation? 

Cardenal: “After graduation I will be working for Nestlé as a full-time trainee for their Sales Development Program. This program will give me the opportunity to grow tremendously while learning all sides of the business through three different sales roles within two-and-a-half years. I am excited for what’s to come and am honored to work for the largest global food and beverage company.”

Where do you see yourself 5 years from today?

Cardenal: “Five years from today I see myself growing at Nestlé. I hope to further my career in marketing as well as attain an opportunity where I can work hand in hand with international markets. I strive to be a leader in the workplace who will have a positive impact within my community.”

Tell us 3 cool things about you.

Cardenal: “Three cool things about me are that I used to Broadway tap dance, I have been inside UF’s Century Tower, and I am a big Miami Heat fan.”